Secrets and Shadows
Shannon Delany
Publisher: St Martins Griffin
Release Date: February 15, 2010
Pages: 320
Source: Borrowed

Nothing’s simple when you run with werewolves. Jess Gillmansen thinks she’s seen it all but her eyes are about to be opened to even more danger and a reality far more paranormal than she’s suspected. With Jess’ realization that the Rusakovas’ mother is still alive and imprisoned, the group’s choices become harder and trust more important. Lines are drawn and relationships change as the broken Rusakova family struggles to reunite to free their mother – and those who Jess thought to be normal people show themselves to be much, much more…

I am really confused about my feelings on this book. I really liked the book overall, but there were different details that I wasn’t  too crazy about. I love the overall plot arc, but there were some dips in the road of Secrets and Shadows that made for a little bit of a bumpy ride. The story took only several chapters to get in to, then I had a hard time putting it down.

The plot was kind of predictable, though it still had a lot of twists and turns I didn’t see coming. I really liked the direction the story took in terms of the werewolves and the master plan by the CIA. Some of the scenes were a bit cliched, like love declaration scene where the boy’s family intervenes, trying to save the girl and keep her safe. I also felt some details weren’t fully explained, as I am still confused after reading.

Peitr drove me mad this entire book. He kept pulling the classic Edward Cullen – I’m not safe for you, blah blah blah. And Jessie? The overprotective mom act for Sarah REALLY needs to go. The two of them with their unnecessary angst and drama was making my headspin! Jessie also came off as a much weaker individual in this book, as she was pining after Pietr.

That aside, I really admire the other characters. Max and Cat are way too much fun. I really admire Amy, I think she is a very relatable character. I thought different other characters also really developed in Secrets and Shadows.
I was slightly disappointed at the ending. While I am now anxious to see what happens in book 3, it almost didn’t make sense to me. It still really built up my anticipation though.

My thoughts on Secrets and Shadows were very mixed. I liked the overall story and the majority of the characters, but there were some other aspects that drove me mad. Regardless, I am still really excited for book 3. This is a fun series to read, and quick reads at that.